Manchester United vs. Wigan - EPL Title Battle - First Half
Sunday, May 11th, 2008 by Dina Ely
First half report from the final match day of 2007/2008 EPL season.
A United side that looks slightly nervous has managed to score against a Wigan side that seems confident and plucky. Cristiano Ronaldo’s penalty (given against Wigan in the 32nd minute for a foul in the box against Wayne Rooney) pushed his team ahead, 1-0. It’s the Portugese scoring machine’s 31st goal of the season.
Wigan have boldly attempted, and nearly succeeded, to dominate United. Their physicality has worked in their favor in their end of the pitch, and United have struggled to mount any decent attacks. Aside from his penalty Ronaldo is not in his usual form, and Carlos Tevez is also struggling to find his scoring boots.
Wigan held the mass of possession during the opening half of the first, but by the halftime whistle United wrested possession back 57% to Wigan’s 43%. Wigan have kept United’s defense on their toes, with 8 shots (2 on goal) to United’s 4 shots (1 on goal).
One can only wonder if the news from around the other Premiership fixtures will influence United’s morale in the locker room. John Terry, Chelsea skipper, was stretchered off early in the goalless Chelsea vs. Bolton game with what appears to be a collarbone injury or dislocation or shoulder injury to the left arm. If Chelsea lose their focus they will pose no threat to United.
As the first wore on, rain began to pour on the JJB, slickening the surface of the pitch. Tackles grew messy and Scholes seemed bound and determined to receive a second yellow late in the half. Fortunately for him and for United, referee Steve Bennett let him off with a warning. Scholes’s physical play on a sloppy pitch may be a reason for concern to United in the second.
Overall United’s first half performance has been far from the smooth, clockwork machine we’ve seen when United are at their best. One goal is all they need, but if Wigan convert a shot and Chelsea score, the situation will be turned on its head. A sense of urgency must lead United in the second.
Around the League:
Blackburn vs. Birmingham 1-0
With relegation a very real possibility the goal in this game is a major boost to Birmingham, and throws the relegation zone into further unsureness.
Derby vs. Reading 0-1
Two teams also in the relegation zone, though there is no question Derby are already relegated. Reading are fighting for their EPL survival.
Portsmouth vs. Fulham 0-0
Portsmouth are safe in middle-to-lower top half of the table, and Fulham are another team on the brink of relegation. The relegation zone is an exciting mess!
Sunderland vs. Arsenal 0-1
A match with very little at stake, since Arsenal are already in the Champions League for next year, and Sunderland are safe from relegation but have no hope of passing any milestones with this match.
Tottenham vs. Liverpool 0-0
Liverpool’s title hopes ended long ago, but they are safe for next year’s Champions League. Tottenham are firmly in 11th place, and have struggled for a long time to dislodge West Ham and break into the top half of the table.
West Ham vs. Aston Villa 1-1
Aston Villa are, as it stands, the Intertoto cup team. If scores hold as they are West Ham will finish in 10th place, where they have remained for much of the second half of this season.
Wigan vs. Man Utd 0-1
If this scoreline holds, United will be declared Champions within an hour.
Middlesbrough vs. Man City 0-2
A 10-man City (Richard Dunne sent off early in the first) is safely lodged in 9th place; Boro might best Wigan for 13th.
Everton vs. Newcastle 1-0
Everton will compete for the UEFA Cup next year. Newcastle have no chance of achieving the top half of the table, and will likely finish the season in 12th.
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